The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) today commended the introduction of H.R. 3164, the Ensuring Community Access to Pharmacist Services Act, in the U.S. House of Representatives. This bold, bipartisan legislation — championed by Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), and Doris Matsui (D-CA) — charts a new course for Medicare beneficiaries, opening the door to pharmacist services already authorized at the state level but still out of reach under Medicare.
The introduction of this legislation is a defining moment for healthcare access. Far too often, seniors who trust and depend on their neighborhood pharmacies cannot utilize essential pharmacist-provided services simply because Medicare does not cover them. By authorizing Medicare reimbursement for these services, H.R. 3164 stands to transform healthcare delivery for seniors and communities nationwide, especially in those communities where provider shortages persist.
“Pharmacies and pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare destinations in America and among the most trusted healthcare professionals. This legislation recognizes that fundamental reality and takes an important step toward bringing needed healthcare services closer to home for millions of seniors,” said NACDS President and CEO Steven C. Anderson.
The Ensuring Community Access to Pharmacist Services Act would, for the first time, enable Medicare Part B coverage for pharmacist services in any area where state law permits pharmacists to provide care. This approach leverages the established infrastructure of community pharmacies — anchors of trust and care in cities and towns across America, and lifelines in rural and underserved regions.
“This legislation builds on the proven leadership of pharmacists when Americans need them most,” continued Anderson. “Pharmacists consistently step up, improve outcomes, and bring care directly to their communities.”
NACDS urges the swift passage of this legislation to ensure that our nation’s seniors can access vital services where they already turn for care — their neighborhood pharmacy.
